Chapter 41:

Elyse's face lit up at the sight of Jayden, and she excitedly called out his name. Theo, turning, saw the trust and reliance she showed another man. The sight caused him intense pain, making it hard to breathe. Taking advantage of his distraction, Elyse broke free and rushed to Jayden.

Noticing the flush on her cheeks and the faint scent of alcohol, Jayden asked with concern, "Have you been drinking? How much?"

"I think five or seven glasses of wine. I lost track; we were talking," Elyse admitted.

Jayden smiled wryly. "And you think that wasn't much?"

"Just a few drinks," Elyse replied, grinning sheepishly.

Theo's frustration boiled over at their comfortable interaction. "Elyse, we were together for three years, and you've moved on so quickly."

Elyse stared at him, astonished and trembling slightly. Could he criticize her for moving on too soon? She hadn't wronged him during their relationship. How could he accuse her now?

"Were you ever truly committed to me during those three years? Kaelyn was always there, you knew it, and you didn't care. I've tolerated enough. Can't I leave you?" For the first time, Theo felt a pang of guilt. He hadn't been oblivious to Elyse's discomfort with Kaelyn's constant presence; he knew it hurt her. He just hadn't considered changing. Perhaps, deep down, he'd relished the attention from two women, forgetting that such a setup doesn't work for everyone. After enduring profound disappointment, Elyse had chosen to leave.

Jayden, holding her hand, faced Theo coolly. "She's made the most logical decision—leaving you and choosing me. I offer her something you never could."

"And what's that?" Theo demanded.

"Security," Jayden replied smoothly, stroking Elyse's arm. "When we first met, her eyes reflected a deep-seated inadequacy. Now, with me, she's brimming with confidence and love. I am the most suitable partner for her."

Theo scoffed. "I don't see any change in her. She's as foolish as ever. Choosing you is the dumbest decision she's made."

"Enough!" Elyse reached her limit. "I will always be a fool in your eyes. If that's the case, stay away from me." She pushed Jayden's wheelchair away and left.

Theo watched her determined departure, a bitter taste in his mouth. He'd experienced a gamut of unfamiliar emotions in their brief interaction.

Meanwhile, Jayden, seated in his wheelchair, appeared cheerful, tapping the armrest. Elyse, however, was far from relaxed. Since encountering Theo, a gloom had settled over her.

"Why do you look like it's the end of the world?" he asked.

"I just don't understand. The past three years mean nothing to Theo. How could he accuse me now?" Elyse replied, troubled.

"Does it really matter? Isn't it clear you spent three years on someone who doesn't deserve it?" Jayden asked lightly.

Elyse opened her mouth to reply but hesitated.

Jayden added, with a hint of detachment, "You're afraid to admit it because then the love and sincerity you once offered would seem foolish."

"No, my love is a precious treasure. I can take it back and give it to someone else whenever I choose," Elyse countered.

Jayden was curious about who that might be, but he remained silent, sensing it wasn't the right moment to ask.

Lizzie appeared in the doorway, hands on her hips. "Lizzie! Planning to run away? Since you can't bring your husband here, just admit you've lost and drink the five bottles of wine on the table!"

Jayden looked at Elyse indifferently. "You're making a bet now?"

"I was pushed into it," Elyse replied, guiltily.

Lizzie, seeing Jayden, was speechless at his good looks—she'd never seen such a handsome man. Then her thoughts soured; despite his appearance, he was disabled.

"So, you're helping a disabled man. But you'll still have to drink," Lizzie declared.

With Jayden beside her, Elyse spoke with newfound confidence. "Actually, you'll be drinking. Meet my husband, Jayden Owen."

...